Before camber, coilovers, or “stance” ever entered the automotive lexicon, Dayton Wire Wheels were already turning heads. Founded in 1916, Dayton is one of the oldest wheel manufacturers in the world, with a legacy that stretches across more than a century of American car culture. Their signature wire-spoke design, paired with iconic “knock-off” hubs, has become synonymous with timeless style, mechanical elegance, and cultural significance.
Originally developed for early American automobiles, Dayton Wire Wheels were even offered as an option on the Ford Model T. In an era when wheel failures were common, Dayton set itself apart with a fully sealed, weatherproof, and maintenance-free design; backed by patented locking mechanisms that ensured strength and safety on rough, unpaved roads.
What truly cemented Dayton’s status, however, was their identity. By the mid-to-late 20th century, Dayton Wire Wheels had evolved from early transportation into aesthetically designed parts. Their gleaming chrome finishes, intricate spoke patterns, and deep lips became a visual signature of lowrider culture. Whether they were mounted on a '64 Impala, a Fleetwood Brougham, or a bombed-out Chevy Styleline, Daytons were the final, essential detail; the exclamation mark on a build.
Unlike most aftermarket wheels, Daytons are still made in the USA and continue to use a hand-assembled construction method that hasn’t changed much in over 100 years. Each set is built to order, often with gold-plated hubs, custom spoke counts, and engraved center caps. Their signature “knock-off” spinner, available in two- or three-wing designs, requires a mallet for install and removal, paying homage to motorsport heritage while embracing luxury and flash.
They became a fixture of hip-hop and Chicano culture, symbolic of pride, expression, and craftsmanship. To this day, no proper lowrider or classic American cruiser feels complete without a set.
More than a century after their founding, Dayton Wire Wheels remain a fixture in automotive style. They've transcended trends, survived changing tastes, and carved out a permanent space in the visual history of American motoring.